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Transition Your Fashion Career From Freelancer to Full-Time

22 March 2024

Are you ready to take things to the next level? The jump from freelancer to full-time may seem scary but we’ve got all the tips to make the transaction as smooth as possible. 

Assess Your Skills and Goals

First things first, take a moment to reflect on your skills, strengths, and passions. What sets you apart from the rest of the fashion world? What do you love doing the most? Is it designing or marketing? Maybe something entirely different. Understanding your talents and interests will help you when choosing which career path to go down. Set yourself goals, maybe a 1-year goal or even 5 years, having a clear vision of where you want to be will guide you through your transition!

Update Your Portfolio

Your portfolio is your entry into the fashion industry, so make sure it’s up-to-date and looks great! Gather your best work - it could be your favourite runway photos or design sketches, even a marketing campaign you loved working on. Highlight your skills and creativity and don’t be afraid to get creative. It could be a physical portfolio or even digital, either way, it needs to be a visual representation of your talent, so make it shine. Here are some tips on creating the best portfolio.

It's All About Who You Know

In fashion, networking is everything. So, put on your favourite outfit, grab your portfolio, and start making connections. Attending industry events such as fashion shows, and networking mixers are a great way to meet other professionals. Don’t forget about networking online too, join fashion groups on social media and connect with influencers. You never know where your next opportunity might come from! 

Seek Out Full-Time Opportunities

Now that you've got your goals, portfolio, and network perfected, it's time to start looking for full-time opportunities. Keep an eye out for job postings from fashion brands, retailers, and agencies that align with your interests and goals. Take a look at our recent vacancies here. Don't be afraid to reach out to companies directly too, sometimes, the perfect job isn't advertised, and you have to create your own opportunities.

Prepare for the Transition

Transitioning from freelance to full-time can be a big change, so make sure you’re prepared for the transition. Update your resume and cover letter, and don’t forget to brush up on your interview skills - have a read our blog to find all the do’s and don’ts in a fashion interview. Don’t forget to negotiate your salary and benefits, you’re worth it! 

You Got This!

With the right skills, mindset, and strategy, you can make your transition easy. Assess your skills and goals, update your portfolio, network, seek out full-time opportunities, prepare for the transition, and believe in yourself! 

Check out more blogs to help you transition into your full-time fashion career on our website, click here.

u&i have an excellent understanding of the particular needs and requirements of our business. Interviews are always well co-ordinated between all parties, and u&i offers a professional, efficient service I would have no hesitations in recommending

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